Seattle's Mayor Bruce Harrell is on the lookout for new talent to join the Pioneer Square Preservation Board and is calling on community members with a passion for historic preservation to step forward. The available positions include Property Owner, Attorney, and an At-Large role, ideal for individuals familiar with, or interested in the history and conservation of Pioneer Square. As reported on The Front Porch, the board is a collective voice in maintaining the architectural integrity and cultural heritage of the district.
Consisting of ten members, the Preservation Board has a significant say in the district’s physical and cultural landscape — they review changes to building facades, signs, new construction, use changes, and street enhancements. Critical to the board's mission, is promoting architectural character, cultural heritage, social diversity and using historic preservation as a tool for economic enhancement. The board members, meeting on the first and third Wednesdays each month, offer their recommendations, to the DON Director for the International Special Review District.
Mandatory board meetings require a hybrid attendance model, both virtual and in-person, and members are often asked to commit to additional committee meetings twice a month. These commitments can tally up to 4 – 8 hours monthly, devoted to board responsibilities. These roles, as stated by the Mayor’s office, are uncompensated, but they offer a unique opportunity to influence the preservation and development of one of Seattle’s treasured neighborhoods.
All appointments are handpicked by Mayor Harrell and require endorsement from the City Council. Those wanting to throw their hat in the ring for this civic-minded opportunity should send a letter of interest along with a resume by September 20. Submission details point to an electronic preference, but paper copies are also accepted, addressed to Genna Nashem, the Board Coordinator. The City of Seattle emphasizes its dedication to diversity and inclusivity in its boards and commissions, actively encouraging a broad spectrum of applicants, including women, people with disabilities, members of the LGBTQ+ community, youth, seniors, persons of color, and immigrants.
The Seattle Department of Neighborhoods Historic Preservation Program, which oversees the designation and protection of historic entities across the city, touts more than 400 historic structures, sites, objects, and vessels in addition to eight historic districts. The contribution of the Preservation Board is crucial in sustaining the unique history and charm of these places for future generations. For further details on how to apply, visit The Front Porch.
